NASCAR 2025: Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing can compete

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports Granted Preliminary Injunction in Antitrust Case Against NASCAR

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In a significant development in the ongoing antitrust case against NASCAR, U.S. District Court Judge Kenneth D. Bell granted a preliminary injunction to 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports on Wednesday. This ruling allows the two teams to compete as chartered teams in the 2025 season.

The judge emphasized the importance of fans being able to watch all teams compete with their best drivers and most competitive teams. NASCAR has not yet responded to the ruling or indicated whether they plan to appeal.

23XI Racing, owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, along with Front Row Motorsports, refused to sign the revenue-sharing offers presented by NASCAR just before the start of the playoffs in September. These offers were described as take-it-or-leave-it deals, prompting the teams to file an antitrust suit against NASCAR.

Charters in NASCAR serve as franchises, providing teams with guaranteed prize money, a spot in the field each week, and other protections. The ongoing lawsuit alleges that NASCAR owners are acting as “monopolistic bullies.”

Following the preliminary injunction, 23XI and Front Row can now sign charter agreements while continuing to pursue their legal case. Additionally, they have been granted permission to acquire additional charters from Stewart Haas Racing, which closed its four-team operation at the end of the 2024 season.

Both teams expressed relief and excitement following the ruling, as it secures their participation in the upcoming season. The decision also resolved potential contract issues with drivers like Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace.

Michael Jordan has been vocal about taking a stand on behalf of all teams in NASCAR, emphasizing the need for fair competition within the sport. While NASCAR argued that the teams simply disagreed with the terms of the charter agreement, the court’s decision supports the claims made by 23XI and Front Row.

Front Row Motorsports, owned by businessman Bob Jenkins, and 23XI Racing, owned by Jordan, Hamlin, and Curtis Polk, are now set to expand their operations with the acquisition of additional charters. This move signifies a significant step forward for both teams in the competitive landscape of NASCAR.

The ruling not only benefits the two teams involved but also upholds the public interest in promoting a diverse and competitive field of participants in NASCAR. The ongoing legal battle between the teams and NASCAR highlights the complexities of competition and fairness within the sport.